What Is It Known For?
Northern Technical College operates as a private for-profit institution with two locations in Arkansas. The Pine Bluff campus started as Eaton Barber Stylist College back in 1954. Bill Heinger founded the school, and Michael Creekmore owned it before new leadership took over. The Hot Springs campus began as ABC Barber College, founded by Charles Kirkpatrick. This location changed ownership in 2011 and adopted its current name in 2012. Travena Jefferson Kilow now owns both campuses.
The college serves a small student body. During the 2023-2024 academic year, 30 undergraduate students enrolled. Similar numbers arrive each year, keeping class sizes intimate and instruction personalized.
Degrees & Certifications
The school awards certificates and diplomas rather than traditional degrees. Programs currently offered include:
- Barber Stylist- 1500 Hours
- Teacher, Manager, Instructor- 600 Hours
- Cosmetology Crossover- 1500 Hours
Class Schedules
Northern Technical College runs on a full-time daytime schedule. Classes happen in person because hands-on training forms the core of each program. Online options are not available. Evening classes are also not part of the schedule.
Programs do not send students to external clinical sites, but they do spend time working with real clients in supervised settings. For example, in the barbering program, that practice helps students build confidence with basic cuts, advanced styles, and customer interaction before stepping into paid roles.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. Northern Technical College is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS).
Acceptance Rate
The admissions process is open to everyone who qualifies. With a non-selective policy, the school has a 100 percent acceptance rate.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
The college does not publish detailed tuition figures on its public site. Available information suggests total program costs generally fall between $15,000 and $19,000. The final price depends on your chosen program and includes necessary fees for tools and supplies. For a clear and personal estimate, using the school’s net price calculator is the most reliable method.
Programs & Courses
Professional Services
- Barber
- Cosmetology Crossover
Campus Locations
Pine Bluff 22215 E. Harding Suite 8 & 9 Pine Bluff, AR 71601
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, Northern Technical College has an exceptionally strong reputation for providing high-quality, professional, and affordable cosmetology/barber services through its student clinic. The overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the skill of the students and the guidance of the instructors.
Overall Score: 5.0/5 Stars
Common Praises
Exceptional Instruction: The instructors are highly praised, with one being called “the bomb” for their skill. Reviewers highlight the “professional experience by the instructor” and the quality of their work.
Skilled and Attentive Students: The students are noted for being “attentive to client” needs and delivering great results in both hair cutting and styling. Reviewers are often thrilled with the results, with one client stating they “left out looking and feeling like America’s top model.”
Positive and Friendly Atmosphere: The college’s environment is consistently described as “friendly,” “very clean,” and providing a “pleasurable experience” for the clients.
Long-Term Client Loyalty: Several reviews mention clients returning for many years, sometimes for over 20 years, indicating strong customer satisfaction and trust in the services provided by the college’s student body.
Focus on Career Skills: One reviewer specifically noted that in addition to mastering hair cutting, the college provides students with valuable “business investment tips.”
Momentum
The reviews, ranging from two months ago to six years ago, are all 5-star ratings, demonstrating a perfect and sustained positive momentum over a long period. The owner frequently responds to reviews, expressing thanks and looking forward to return visits, which reinforces the welcoming atmosphere. The most recent reviews continue to be highly positive, focusing on great service.